5 winter foods that naturally mimic Ozempic

Winter comes with a new excitement when it comes to fashion, fun, music and more. But one of the most addictive changes it brings about is in the everyday diet. You can have as many cinnamon lattes as you want while munching on some freshly baked gooey cookies. However, for those on a weight loss journey, diets can get a bit boring and many end up choosing to start weight loss drugs like Ozempic just for this. But did you know there are some winter foods that may naturally mimic the effects of drugs like Ozempic?

While natural Ozempic might sound too good to be true, a recent scientific report could get your hopes up for all the right reasons. A study published in Toxicology Reports, found that certain plant products can imitate the effects of GLP-1, the natural hormone that Ozempic and other similar drugs mimic. “GLP-1 plays a crucial role in maintaining stable blood sugar levels,” wrote researchers at Heliopolis University in Egypt. Five foods come closest to mirroring this effect, reducing hunger and cravings. Here's who they are and you can add them to your diet easily while still keeping it delicious.

Isolated cinnamon components enhance insulin-dependent glucose metabolism, according to in vitro research. As per the researchers, cinnamon is a popular cooking spice that may have therapeutic uses as well such as lowering blood pressure and blood sugar. A 2009 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a 3-gram dose of cinnamon can increase the GLP-1 levels in healthy people.

Ginger and its chemical constituent gingerol may induce GLP-1 production, stated the study. "GLP-1 in turn has hypoglycaemic impact", which is why the root veggie has been prescribed to diabetic patients for a long time.

Beverages like Kombucha are prepared by fermenting tea with bacteria and yeast. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Functional Foods, states that compounds present in green tea such as EGCG, can stimulate GLP-1 release.

Hydrolysate is a protein derived from wheat and it is rich in amino acids and peptides. It is believed to lower blood glucose concentration by increasing the release of GLP-1, stated the study.

Berberine is a substance found in a variety of plants and may be the closest thing to "natural Ozempic." It is found in barberry, Oregon grape and other plants. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, a 2022 review of 18 studies found berberine supplements to reduce body weight, BMI, fasting blood glucose and LDL cholesterol.

Also known as "medicinal plants," these foods are not as effective as Ozempic but have far fewer side effects. Combined with a healthy workout routine and stress management, these can actually help you lose weight over time, in a healthy way.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment and before changing your diet or supplement regimen.